Raudmelen Summit Hike
The mountain locals call their own, Raudmelen towers directly behind Balestrand village and rewards the climb with a panorama that stretches across the full width of the Sognefjord — emerald water, snow-capped ridges and the tiny red rooftops of the village far below.
The trail from the village centre
The hike begins just a few minutes' walk from the village centre, near the elementary school, making it unusually accessible for a summit this dramatic. Sherpa craftsmen have installed stone steps on the steepest sections, giving the trail a solid, well-maintained feel even when wet.
The ascent covers roughly 463 metres of elevation gain. Expect steep and narrow passages higher up, so poles and sturdy footwear are advised. Most fit walkers reach the top in 90 minutes to two hours, and the trail is well marked throughout.
What you see from the top
At the summit, the Sognefjord — Norway's longest and deepest fjord at over 200 km inland — unfolds below you in every direction. On clear days you can pick out the ferry routes threading between distant headlands and, to the west, the broad mouth of the fjord opening toward the sea.
The mountain is a favourite of locals year-round: in summer the upper slopes are carpeted with wildflowers and blueberries; in autumn the birch trees turn gold against the steel-blue water. Sunrise hikes in late June, when the Nordic sky barely darkens, are particularly unforgettable.
Combining the hike with Kreklingen trails
If a full summit push feels too ambitious, the Kreklingen trail network on the lower slopes of the mountain offers shorter, colour-coded loops that still deliver panoramic fjord views, seasonal berry-picking and peaceful forest walking — all starting from the Kreklingen parking area in the village.
Chatting with staff at Kviknes Hotel before you set out is worthwhile: they know current trail conditions and can advise on the best route variation for your fitness level and the season.
Raudmelen Summit Hike on video
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